The Anime Series That Outlasted The Simpsons: Unbelievable Episode Count!

Highlights

Contrary to popular belief, The Simpsons is not the longest-running animated show on primetime. Surprisingly, that title goes to a little-known Japanese anime called Sazae-san, which boasts a staggering number of episodes and holds the Guinness World Record for the longest-running animated series.

Sazae-san, a beloved Japanese program, chronicles the daily life of the unique and free-spirited individual Sazae. Since its debut in 1969, it has captivated audiences with over 8,540 episodes, offering a nostalgic portrayal of Japanese family life.

Unlike The Simpsons, which boasts availability on DVDs and Disney+, Sazae-san remains confined to Japan and has not been released on home video platforms. This exclusivity is a result of the creator's deliberate decision, rendering it less accessible to international viewers.

Ever had a conversation with a friend where The Simpsons comes up and one of you realizes, "Wait, The Simpsons is still on?!" Well, that's because The Simpsons has been airing on Sunday nights on Fox for over three decades and it shows no signs of slowing down. However, if you thought it was the longest-running animated show on primetime, you would be mistaken.

Interestingly enough, in Japan, there is an anime that has been on the air for a longer period than The Simpsons. Not only that, but it has amassed a significantly larger number of episodes. So, what exactly is this show, how many episodes does it have, and why haven't most people seen it?

What is The Simpsons?

The Simpsons, an American-animated sitcom, was created by cartoonist Matt Groening and produced by the acclaimed director James L. Brooks for the Fox Broadcasting Company. Since its premiere on December 17, 1989, it has become one of the longest-running and most influential television shows in history. The series humorously depicts a middle-class American lifestyle through the Simpson family - Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. Set in the fictional town of Springfield, the show offers satirical commentary on American culture, society, television, and various aspects of the human condition.

The impact of The Simpsons on popular culture cannot be overstated. It has popularized catchphrases like Homer's "D'oh!" and has spawned a wide range of merchandise, comic books, a feature film (The Simpsons Movie), and video games. Beyond its massive popularity, the series is celebrated for its clever humor, well-developed characters, and insightful societal satire. It has received over 30 Primetime Emmy Awards.

What is Sazae-san?

Sazae-san, created by Machiko Hasegawa, is a well-known Japanese comic strip and animated TV series. Originally appearing as a comic strip in 1946, it later became a popular radio program in the 1950s. In 1969, the series was adapted into an anime television show, quickly becoming a cherished program in Japan. The story revolves around the everyday life of the Isono family, with a focus on the main character, Sazae-san, and her interactions with her husband, son, parents, siblings, and neighbors. Each episode presents slice-of-life moments, filled with humor and heartfelt touches.

What sets Sazae-san apart is its portrayal of a strong, independent woman, challenging the traditional norms of Japanese society. This is particularly notable considering the historical and cultural context in which it was created and still takes place. The series offers a special combination of humor, family values, and cultural insights, appealing to multiple generations of Japanese viewers.

One interesting aspect to note is that, similar to The Simpsons, the characters in Sazae-san do not age despite its long run. The show has steadfastly maintained its original setting and style, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Japanese family life that stands in contrast to the modern realities of Japan. Despite calls for the series to be modernized, the production staff remains firm in their commitment to preserving Machiko Hasegawa's creation and its distinctive look and feel.

How Many More Episodes Does Sazae-san Have Over The Simpsons?

Unbeknownst to many, Sazae-san holds the prestigious title of holding the Guinness World Record for being the longest-running animated television series in history. While American publications often marvel at the extensive episode count of The Simpsons, it pales in comparison to Sazae-san, which boasts thousands of episodes. As of now, The Simpsons has aired for 34 seasons and consists of 750 episodes, a movie, and numerous exclusive shorts showcased in theaters and on Disney+. Undeniably, this is an impressive feat, and it is crucial to note that this article does not intend to belittle the cherished Springfield family.

With an astonishing 8,540 episodes (and possibly more by the time you read this), Sazae-san far surpasses any other series in terms of sheer quantity. This immense content can be attributed to its continuous weekly airing since its premiere in 1969, with only occasional disruptions due to national tragedies. Interestingly, despite its massive popularity, Sazae-san has never been released outside Japan or made available on home video platforms, in accordance with the desires of its manga creator who opposed merchandising. In contrast, although The Simpsons may not match the episode count of Sazae-san, its earlier episodes are accessible on DVD and Disney+ for new fans, and it even boasts a feature-length animated film.